We Compared ChatGPT, TrainerRoad & a Cycling Coach. Here's What We Learned.

Everyone has an opinion about the best way to train for cycling.Some swear by a coach. Others say TrainerRoad is all you'll ever need. And now more and more cyclists are asking the same question...Can ChatGPT actually build a training plan that's just as good?Instead of guessing, we spent an entire race season finding out.We trained with ChatGPT for nearly a year. We spent a full year working with a cycling coach in 2025. We also completed 5+ months using TrainerRoad. Then we sat down and compared everything—not opinions, but the actual training plans, workout structure, and race results.We break down:Training philosophyWeekly TSSTime spent in every training zoneVO₂ Max, Threshold, Sweet Spot and Endurance workInterval designRecovery weeksAdaptability to busy schedulesRace specificityThe biggest strengths and weaknesses of each approachMost importantly, we answer the question every cyclist wants to know:Which one actually made us faster on race day?Whether you're considering TrainerRoad, wondering if ChatGPT can replace a cycling coach, or trying to figure out the best cycling training plan for your goals, this episode should help you make a more informed decision.We also catch up on our latest training, share our thoughts on the newly released Specialized Tarmac SL9, discuss the new Specialized Crux 5, and talk about what's next for the rest of our racing season.Chapters01:21 - New Specialized Tarmac SL9 impressions09:49 - The new Specialized Crux 5 19:05 - Recent training updates29:26 - TrainerRoad vs ChatGPT vs a coach32:55 - Training philosophy comparison38:27 - Time spent in each training zone46:06 - Weekly TSS comparison50:16 - Interval design comparison58:19 - Pros and cons of each approach#TrainerRoad #CyclingTraining #ChatGPT #RoadCycling #CyclingPodcastFollow us: YOUTUBE: @bespoke-endurance INSTAGRAM: @bespoke_enduranceTIK TOK: @bespokeendurance STRAVA: https://www.strava.com/athletes/12445307 & https://www.strava.com/athletes/9809044 SPOTIFY: Bespoke Endurance | Podcast on SpotifyAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1790091191IHEARTRADIO: https://iheart.com/podcast/259385937/